We met the old fashioned way, through mutual friends. Bethany was invited to come up for a lake day with a few other friends at Keith’s parent’s house, just north of Grand Rapids. It was a perfect summer day on Big Whitefish Lake with boating, tubing and grilling out... and even more importantly, was an instant bond between “Bee” and “KP” since they both grew up enjoying summers with their grandparents and families on lakefront properties. In the evening, over s'mores and drinks around a bonfire, they realized there were a few sparks flying outside the fire ring, too!

Bethany and Keith had been planning a weekend hiking/backpacking trip for a few months to South Manitou Island where they had their first camping trip together two years ago with friends. They started out in Leland, enjoying a Chubby Mary at Rick's Cafe before departing on a ferry to the island, which is part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Bethany asked if they could explore the lighthouse upon their arrival on Friday, but Keith didn't seem too excited about it, so they hiked about 3.5 miles towards their campsite. Unfortunately, because of a rainy summer, the mosquitos were in full force. Thankfully, they were able to enjoy a bug-free, dehydrated meal on the beach and beautiful sunset. Saturday morning they had planned to hike the interior of the island, but because of the bloodsucker attacks, opted to head to another trail hugging Lake Michigan where there was some mosquito reprieve. Bethany was having an allergic reaction to all of the mosquito bites, so a quick stop to the ranger station for Benadryl was in order. Enjoying lunch in the shadows of the South Manitou Lighthouse, they relaxed and waited for the lighthouse to open for the next tour. Upon arrival of the keeper, they climbed the 117 steps to the top. Once on the lookout, over 100 feet above Lake Michigan, Bethany started taking a few pictures and was looking for Keith to recreate a photo they'd taken two years prior. Unbeknownst to her, he was coordinating with a photographer down below who he'd arranged to come over on the ferry! Bethany rounded one side where Keith was waiting. He held Bethany's hands, said many sweet, loving things, then dropped to one knee and brought out the sparkling ring! She said YES through happy tears. Then, he pointed out the lighthouse keeper who was in on the plan, and the photographer! They enjoyed champagne on the beach and a mini photo session before calling family and friends with the thrilling news!